Mandel has now admitted in a Parade column that he initially had fears about having four judges on the America's Got Talent panel.

"I was concerned about having four judges this season rather than three, but I think it works out well," he explained. "Each of them adds something totally different and totally new. It's very different than it was last season."

Mandel added: "I believe they have constructive input you wouldn't hear from anybody else but themselves. If you look at each of them, Mel B has been part of one of the most successful pop groups of the last three decades.

"Heidi is not only stunning - I mean, she can just sit there and I find that incredibly entertaining - but aside from that, she's very smart and an entrepreneur who can market and create."

The judge went on to suggest that Klum and Mel B can also offer contestants valuable advice on how to become internationally respected acts.

"You have to be lucky that whatever tickles your fancy appeals to a wide audience. Heidi Klum and Mel B know how to market to international audiences, whether in fashion, TV, or music," Mandel commented.

"That's what we're looking for: something that can be launched and become a household name and an international act."